Of origins
and craft.
A partial account of where Anaqa comes from.
The pearl diving heritage of the Arabian Gulf
At Anaqa Pearls, we honour a remarkable journey between two celebrated heritages. Inspired by the historic pearl legacy of the Arabian Gulf—where pearls shaped commerce, culture and generations of life before oil—we bring these treasures together with Hyderabad’s distinguished Nawabi tradition of pearl artistry and craftsmanship, inspired by the grandeur and refinement of the royal courts of Nizam heritage.
Working closely with skilled pearl merchants and artisans, Anaqa transforms this shared heritage into jewellery that carries the artistry and character of two cultures—bringing the journey full circle as each creation returns to the Gulf.
Born in the Gulf. Enriched by Nawabi artistry. Inspired by the royal courts of Nizam heritage. Brought home by Anaqa Pearls.
Created for milestones, celebrations and moments worth remembering, each jewel is intended to become part of a personal story—and, one day, a treasured heirloom.
HANDCRAFTED JEWELLERY
At Anaqa, jewellery is not simply made—it is brought to life by hand. Every pearl strand is individually chosen for its glow, form and personality; every gemstone is considered for its colour, depth and relationship with the pearls beside it.
Our artisans then build each Anaqa design strand by strand, stone by stone, allowing the natural character of the materials to guide the final creation. This human touch means subtle differences are not imperfections, but signatures of true handcraft—making every Anaqa piece distinctly its own.
We prioritise 92.5% sterling silver across our collections for its luminous finish and refined character. Where intricate designs require greater strength, it is expertly blended with a supporting metal to enhance durability and preserve the structure of each piece, ensuring it remains as durable as it is beautiful.
The Basra Pearl — the finest natural pearl of the Arabian Gulf
The finest natural pearl of the Arabian Gulf. Last commercially harvested, 1940.
The Nawabi courts of Hyderabad
“Among the treasures of the Nizam, the pearl rooms alone were said to require three full days to properly appreciate. Each strand was catalogued. Each pendant had a name.”
The Nawabi legacy of Hyderabad
THE NAWABI LEGACY
Anaqa Pearls draws inspiration from a family connection to Hyderabad’s distinguished Nawabi heritage, where an appreciation for fine jewellery and craftsmanship was passed through generations.
Known throughout the world as the City of Pearls, Hyderabad became celebrated for master artisans, remarkable gemstones and elaborate pearl jewellery worn by its royal and noble families.
That aesthetic remains at the heart of Anaqa: graceful proportions, magnificent strands, rich gemstones and an unmistakable sense of refinement—reinterpreted for the modern woman.
A heritage remembered. A tradition reimagined.
The history of pearls
THE HISTORY OF PEARLS
Long before diamonds became synonymous with luxury, pearls were among the world’s most coveted jewels.
Unlike gemstones extracted from the earth, a pearl is formed within a living mollusk. Its extraordinary origin, luminous appearance and historic rarity made it a symbol of status and beauty across civilisations.
Before oil transformed the region, pearl diving was integral to life across the Arabian Gulf. Divers ventured into its waters in search of natural pearls, many of which travelled through international trade routes to royal courts and jewellery centres—including Hyderabad.
Among history’s celebrated examples is La Peregrina, a remarkable pearl that passed through European royalty and was later gifted by Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor.
From ancient courts to contemporary jewellery, pearls have remained remarkably timeless.
“We make things that outlast us.”